Ok everyone !
I have a small problem and need some help and advice. I am assembling a GWS Corsair and am using Robarts small hingpoint hinges for the control surfaces. When installing the aileron hinges, (using foam CA ) some of the ca got on the hinges and they got stuck. I was able to free them up with careful and meticulous work. But not about half of them are a little to stiff for my taste and probably too stiff for the mini-servos. The question I have is; How can I free them up? Even some of the brand new hinges appeared stiff right out of the pkg. I put a small drop of macine oil on them but it just doesn't seem to help. Any Idea's?
Thank's !!
PS this is my first foamy too ! so it a learning experience also.
Gaylan

I've never tried this, but how about the solvent used to free up CA. Apply carefully to the hinge joint. But test it out on a hinge and a scrap piece of foam to make sure it doesn't desolve the foam too.

I've had this problem with carpenters glue and hinges too.

Jim

Personally, I would cut the hinges, trim them flush and rehinge in different locations.

Working vaseline into the hinge knuckles, keeping the rest of the hinge clean. This will help prevent any glue from getting into the hinge itself. And epoxy is the recommended glue for the hinge points.

Dave

dbacque's idea is not bad if you can do it. Could you use CA hinges in your application? If so, remember to install half of the hinge in the wing or stabilizer, pin the hinge(so it stays half way installed), then slip on the aileron, elevator or rudder. CA hinges are so easy to use and you don't have to worry about the glue locking your final installation.

CA hinge--- best thing since sliced bread !!!!

Thanks for the suggestions everyone;
I have managed to get four of the six hnges loosened up, just by careful use of the xacto knife,and lots of patience. I only have 2 more to go. It's a good thing that CA doesnt bond well with these types of hinges. It's just a matter of getting into the very small and tight hinge pivot area and getting it clean. I just wish our LHS hadn't closed up and gone out of business, I would have just replaced the hinges.
Thanks again for all the helpful ideas and suggestions
Now if I can just get this site to print my full name instead of the last 3 letters........................ OH well ![]

Gaylan

It's a good thing that CA doesnt bond well with these types of hinges.

You're right, it doesn't. Since it doesn't, I would really question the use of CA for this type of hinge. Personally, I would dig them out and rehinge using epoxy. Don't use any type of petroleum-based lubricant on the hinge. It may degrade the plastic. Ilike to use white lithium grease.

Any solvent that will debond the CA will probably make the foam disappear.

A LHS with a website can probably USPS replacement hinges to you for little or no extra charge.

Dr.1

Just work the last two hinges loose and next time, use Gorilla Glue. Best thing in the world for hinge points. I have used it for quite some time and never had a problem with it. Holds the hinge in and will never come out. Also, not as messy as Epoxy. CA is not the best glue for hinge points, but it can work. Just use Gorilla Glue next time and wipe off the foam while it is still soft, then clean up with an exacto knife. Beats CA hinges any time. I always throw CA hinges in the trash where they belong and install hinge points in their place. Never had one come out yet. You can also use Yellow wood glue to put them in and clean it up with a paper towel and water before the glue sets. I have used hinge points since they came out and never had a problem with them unlike CA hinges.
Ed